Gardner-Webb students benefit from small classes with an average 13-to-1 student-faculty ratio, individualized instruction, and professors who are committed to helping foster personal and professional success.

Originally founded in 1905 as Boiling Springs High School, Gardner-Webb has steadily grown its academic programs, student body, physical campus, and community relationships to become a nationally-recognized leader in Christian higher education.

From academic support services to on-campus concerts and events, Gardner-Webb provides a variety of activities that broaden the collegiate experience and balance academics with vibrant student life opportunities.

Home to the Runnin' Bulldogs, Gardner-Webb gives student-athletes a complete college experience with an emphasis on academic enrichment and an opportunity to compete in one of 22 NCAA Division I sports.

Spiritual formation plays an integral role at Gardner-Webb University. Student-led worship services are offered each week, while the Dimensions program offers attendees opportunities for spiritual growth as part of the required curriculum.

Gardner-Webb stands on the threshold of our next great chapter, one your generosity will help write. Together we will propel the University toward an exciting future as one of the nation’s preeminent Christian universities.

GWU Exercise Science Classes Prepare Student for Future in Medicine

Exercise Science

London Schumacher (’18), exercise science major“I have learned an incredible amount of knowledge about the body and movement as a whole.”

London Schumacher (’18) admits she’s somewhat nerdy when it comes to studying anatomy and physiology. The Waynesville, N.C., native is majoring in exercise science to prepare for Physician Assistant (PA) school. One of her favorite classes has been Motor Behavior taught by Dr. Jeff Hartman, associate professor of exercise science at Gardner-Webb University. “I have learned an incredible amount of knowledge about the body and movement as a whole,” Schumacher said. “I still brag about that class to anyone who will listen.”

She’s also discovered that she likes studying chemistry and how it relates to the medical field. “Medicine is a combination of chemical compounds and those class experiences have allowed me to understand why medicines react differently,” Schumacher observed. “Also the chemistry department is filled with brilliant people. They make it much easier to learn and love the subject.”

A member of the GWU Women’s Swim Team, Schumacher chose GWU over several other colleges because of its small class sizes, the recommendation of a friend and reputation of swim coach Mike Simpson. “I felt as though God was pulling me towards GWU,” she reflected. “Everything about it was great—the small class sizes, the beautiful campus, the amazing swim team, and an environment that supported my faith.”

An unexpected benefit of the Gardner-Webb experience has been the connections she’s made with people in the surrounding town of Boiling Springs, N.C. “You really get to know the people outside of the school area,” she assessed. “For me, knowing the people personally that work at the Snack Shop (restaurant) makes going there that much better. Being a college student, it’s hard sometimes to find a place where you belong, but having a community that is so loving and small makes it that much easier.”